Hey Rest!

I really like the air of confidence you had going here. At first, we don't actually know what the article/story is about. And I quite liked that. I liked that Ted was more interested in getting a beer and relaxing over something as important as the article that was set to publish.

Because once we do learn what the article is about, that air of confidence only sticks around and it allows us to see Ted in a new light.

I also really liked how you described Ted's surroundings here. The heat, the insects and of course, how Ted is feeling during all of this. Really builds up his character.

I do have a few bits and bobs for you though,

> The aircon was fighting a losing battle but better than standing out there.

I think this bit could be reworded a bit. "...fighting a losing battle but it was better than nothing." maybe?

> Even through the window I could hear the cacophony; bugs waiting in ambush. I called her back.

Here, does he disconnect the call? was under the impression that the call was still going the entire time. Or was this a transfer from the car's calling feature to his phone? If so, maybe specifying that could help.

> I think attractive girls selling watermelon by the roadside is a worthy cause,

A small thing here. "watermelons" (plural) may be what you're looking for.

One final thing: The ending. It just felt a bit vague to me. I liked the mention of the beer again, reinforcing that confidence and disinterest one final time. But the bit about the report gets me. What does "Gail let me take a more liberal stance" mean here? What did she let him do? Was he promoted? Did she let him do as he saw best without much questioning? Just bits like that.

I hope this helps.

Good Words!